Having owned a CBR600 for several years, I was very happy to have the opportunity to try Honda Canada’s new CBR650R for a few hours. After 100,000 kilometers on the F3, expectations are high, but I remain confident and enthusiastic.
I look at it, then I sit and start it. I have a smile on my face and here we go!
In 2021, the Honda offers us a 95 HP engine and 47 lbs of torque with a sequential 6-speed constant mesh transmission, with standard ABS. A 649cc 4-cylinder in-line engine with consumption depending on your riding style, of course! Same with exhaust sound, the more your twist the throttle, to more the engine sings and come to life!
From geometry to suspension, the CBR delivers a predictable experience that allows us to focus on the road and curves, not whether the front will lift, the rear will slouch or even start to wobble at high speed.
From the first kilometers, I find this feeling of deja vu, but improved. The throttle control is smooth, the shifting too, all beyond reproach.
Engine power is decent, enough to give you a thrill but controllable. The 600 class for sports bikes is my personal favorite. The weight, power and maneuverability combo is ideal and more than adequate for the majority of us.
However, it is important to know your actual needs and uses. If you plan to ride with a passenger most of the time, it may be better to go for a 1000cc. Not only for engine power, but also for braking, suspension, and electronics.
The driving position is not too aggressive and allows you to enjoy more relaxed outings or around town riding without your wrists suffering too much. The seat is much thinner than on my F3, but overall comfortable and didn’t bother me during my outings.
The CBR650R will please you and its price remains accessible at around 11500$. With reliability like Honda’s, maintaining this one won’t put a strain on your budget either.
So don’t wait until they are all sold out!
I miss it already… I would have liked to have it for a few thousand more kilometers… haha
Jean-Sébastien Mackay
Knuckle / LeCarnetMoto.com